Congress has passed legislation Wednesday that will "dramatically restrict major source" of PFAS contamination in drinking water statewide.
The bill will give commercial airports the choice to switch to firefighting foams that do not contain PFAS. PFAS -- perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances -- are highly toxic fluorinated chemicals.
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Under the current law, airports were required to use firefighting foams containing PFAS, which have been linked to cancer, kidney disease and other health problems.
“Firefighting foam is a significant source of PFAS contamination in drinking water throughout the country,” said EWG Legislative Attorney Melanie Benesh. “This legislation is a critical first step to allow airports to switch to the less toxic alternatives, which are already being used safely and effectively in other countries.
